Accidents on NJ Roadways Way Up [AUDIO]

Constant snow and perpetual spells of frigid temperatures have made driving an even riskier proposition this winter in the Garden State.

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The New Jersey State Police said both accidents and calls for aid increased during the span of November 2013 to February 2014 compared to November 2012 to February 2013. In total, there have been 17,282 accidents this winter, compared to 14,985 last winter. Calls for aid have increased even more going from 29,721 last winter to 37,168 this winter.

“Snow is really that much of a factor, any kind of precipitation on the roads, whether it’s water, ice, snow – we definitely see an increase in reported accidents and aid,” said Jeffery Flynn, a trooper with NJSP.

What’s causing so many accidents?

Flynn said the biggest culprit is drivers not giving themselves enough room behind the car in front of them, resulting in many vehicles being rear-ended. He said the weather is also a factor, especially when it’s treacherous. Even driving cautiously can put drivers at risk.

“This winter, there has been a degree of ice or snow where a person is driving safely and they hit a patch of snow or ice and the car spins out, ” Flynn said.

The state’s numerous potholes has pushed the number of aid calls up thanks to flat tires and other damage.

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